2009 Audi A4 2.0L Diesel · RO09 NFP

The most recent MOT test for this 2009 Audi A4 was conducted on 2022-05-26 and resulted in a clean pass, marking the vehicle’s most recent assessment without any recorded defects. However, the preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and one major failure, indicating that while the vehicle has passed recent inspections, underlying wear and potential long-term issues warrant closer scrutiny. The failure in 2019—where the near-side front outer drive shaft joint CV boot was found burst—was a critical mechanical failure, suggesting that the vehicle’s drivetrain components, particularly the CV joints and boots, have been subject to significant wear or neglect over time. The advisories from 2021 and earlier, particularly those related to suspension ball joints exhibiting slight play and tyre wear approaching legal limits, further imply that the suspension and tyre systems have not been fully maintained, which could lead to progressive deterioration if unaddressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 190,735 miles over approximately 17 years represents an average annual usage of around 11,220 miles, which is relatively typical for its age and class. However, the MOT history suggests periods of either light use or prolonged standing, as evidenced by the repeated advisories on tyre wear that could indicate flat spots or uneven loading from stationary conditions. The 2016 MOT also noted flat spots on the near-side rear tyre, which may have developed from prolonged idling or improper storage. While the mileage alone does not justify alarm, the combination of wear advisories and the CV boot failure suggests that the vehicle has accumulated wear beyond what might be expected from its mileage alone, particularly in high-friction components like the drivetrain and suspension. The 2019 failure of the CV boot, in particular, underscores the importance of inspecting the entire drivetrain system for signs of further deterioration, such as leaks from the joint seals, excessive play in the driveshaft, or unusual noises during acceleration or cornering. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the drivetrain and suspension systems, as these have been flagged repeatedly. Begin with the CV joints and boots, checking for any signs of fluid leakage, excessive play when the vehicle is in motion (listen for a whining or clicking noise during acceleration or cornering), or visible damage to the boots themselves. The suspension ball joints, particularly those noted in the 2021 MOT, should be examined for signs of wear, such as excessive movement when the vehicle is lifted at a wheel end or a clunking noise when driving over bumps. Additionally, the tyres must be thoroughly inspected for uneven wear patterns, flat spots, or sidewall damage, as the advisories suggest that the vehicle may have been subjected to conditions that accelerate tyre degradation. A test drive is essential to identify any suspension-related noises, such as clunks or rattles from the front or rear, which could indicate failing suspension components like coil springs, bushes, or struts. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also address the broader roadworthiness and longevity of the vehicle. Given the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing corrosion—particularly in the wheel arches, undercarriage, and brake components—it is advisable to inspect these areas for signs of rust, especially if the vehicle has been stored in a damp or exposed environment. The brake system should be checked for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, which can occur when the vehicle is stationary for long periods. The engine management light from the 2017 MOT indicates an unresolved fault, so a scan tool should be used to retrieve any stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and confirm whether the issue has been addressed or is still active. Finally, while the MOT history is not pristine, the vehicle’s cleanest recent test suggests that with timely maintenance, it could remain roadworthy for several thousand more miles. However, the buyer should budget for preventative servicing, particularly for the CV joints, suspension components, and tyres, to mitigate further wear and avoid costly repairs.